"This is a massive and exciting year for Doctor Who, so I'm thrilled that BAFTA are including a special tribute to the show. So thrilled, in fact, we're sending the Doctor's best friend, Jenna Coleman, to present an award," said Steven Moffat.

"We're also sending the Doctor's worst enemy, the Daleks, to exterminate lots of innocent people. Sorry, it's just what they do. Let us know if it's a Health and Safety issue."

Two Daleks will be sent to 'patrol' the red carpet on Sunday as guests arrive.

BAFTA chief executive Amanda Berry hailed the long-running drama's "quality and longevity" and its "ability to put the nation on their sofas or indeed behind them - year after year", adding that the organisation "raises a toast to Doctor Who on its 50th birthday".

The Arqiva British Academy Television Awards will be hosted by Graham Norton at the Royal Festival Hall, London on Sunday, May 12. They will be broadcast from 8pm the same night on BBC One.